A DRAGONS' Den evening at the University of Worcester has helped build links with a city-based charity.

The event, which was held to draw attention to fledgling business investment opportunities in the region, was also attended by the Noah's Ark Trust - a charity which helps bereaved children and their families.

Tim Maxfield, director of business development at Worcester Business School, said the event had been a great success.

"The Dragons' Den event was attended by 100 local business people who watched three companies make a bid for investment into their ideas.

"One was about reducing CO2 emissions in cars and the other two were about reducing energy use in the commercial work and domestic market. It turned out to be quite a green-themed event," he said.

"For Noah's Ark to be there was great and it was very useful for us and them as we made some very useful connections.

"It was an opportunity to talk business with a local charity. We were delighted to welcome so many businesses into the university and it was a very enjoyable evening."

The three companies pitching their ideas at the event, which took place on Wednesday, February 6, were Irridian, Gaia Active and Aeristech. Held in association with investment firm Beer and Partners and sponsored by Advantage West Midlands, the evening was preceded by an equity entrepreneur workshop for any would-be investors in unquoted firms.

Gabby Beddows, head of operations at the charity said: "We are thankful to Worcester Business School and Beer and Partners for the opportunity to network with local businesses.

"The dragons were very interested to learn about the way our service helps children and young people to come to terms with their grief and to look to the future.

"We were approached by a number of interested parties and we look forward to working with them in the future.

"The business school is keen to continue its work with the charity to help us promote our work in the local community."

Meanwhile your Worcester News has launched its Towards A Brighter Future campaign to raise £1 million for the charity to buy its own base in the heart of the county.